Altimira and Quagliata: Deportivo's 'total' full-backs ready for Castalia battle
Hidalgo's wide defenders are proving crucial to Deportivo's attacking play, with competition for places heating up as Escudero and Navarro return to fitness
Deportivo La Coruña’s wide defensive options are looking proper tasty as they prepare for their upcoming clash at Castalia, with Adriá Altimira and Giacomo Quagliata emerging as ‘total’ full-backs who are driving the team’s attacking play.
Squad depth paying dividends
Antonio Hidalgo’s squad has been significantly bolstered following the winter transfer window arrivals of Álvaro, Ferllo, Altimira and Rikie. This depth could prove absolutely crucial as Depor chase their ambitious goals this season.
The full-back positions have become a particular strength, with Altimira and Quagliata hitting their stride at the perfect moment. Both players have been instrumental in initiating attacks for the Blanquiazul, providing that width and creativity from deep that modern football demands.
What’s more, the return to fitness of Escudero and Navarro has cranked up the competition for starting berths, pushing everyone to raise their game. It’s the sort of selection headache every gaffer dreams of.
Understanding and concentration
Quagliata, the Italian defender, credits the coaching staff for their development, explaining that daily improvements in positional understanding are making the difference.
“Each day we understand our teammates better and that’s the key,” the Italian full-back noted, highlighting the growing chemistry within the squad.
Meanwhile, Altimira, the former Villarreal man, emphasizes the mental aspects required to succeed in Spain’s notoriously competitive second tier.
The Catalan believes unwavering concentration is essential, pointing out that Segunda División’s quality demands constant focus. He acknowledged there have been matches where mental lapses proved dangerous, stressing that maintaining high performance levels is non-negotiable in this division.
Looking ahead
With these wide defensive options firing on all cylinders, Deportivo look well-equipped for their upcoming challenges. The balance of attacking threat and defensive solidity provided by these ‘total’ full-backs could be the difference-maker as the season progresses.
If Hidalgo can keep this lot fit and firing, Depor fans might just have something to get excited about in the coming months. Not half bad for a team looking to make noise in Segunda.